Sixteen year old Brandon Stockdale is not likely to forget riding his first winner at Flemington, his sixth ride at headquarters on Bon Rocket.

The youngster showed the qualities of one beyond his years, when soon after the start the saddle slipped, throwing pre race plans into disarray.

To his credit he showed a lot of common sense and judgement, he held the gelding together remarkably well, a great performance for one so young.

He earned the seal of approval from trainer, Wendy Kelly, she was impressed with the ride, “this kid is going to be a champion as an apprentice and then as a senior rider,” said Kelly

Bon Rocket wins under Brandon Stockdale

There was a touch of sentiment concerning the win of Bon Rocket’s as she trained his sire, Bon Hoffa, to win nine races, he was a darn good horse winning the M R C Group 1 Invitation Stakes, and Group 3 Bobby Lewis Stakes down the straight six twice.

Bon Rocket deserved his win, he has been knocking on the door at his last three runs, the stable was fairly confident, but obviously the market didn’t share the same opinion.

The gelding will remain in work for the present, while Wendy Kelly looks for a suitable race for him.

Winning Jockey and Trainer